DirectFlo DF1400
Chapter 2: Getting Started
Comco Inc.
2-2
Issue Date: January 2009
The Proper Work Area
The DirectFlo should be used in an environment that:
Provides adequate ventilation.
Provides adequate lighting both inside and outside the primary
WorkStation. Comco recommends that the general environment
be illuminated with at least 50 decaluxes and that the interior of
the WorkStation be illuminated with a minimum of 125 decaluxes.
Is between 68°F and 85°F, with less than 40 percent relative
humidity.
The DirectFlo is intended for use in a factory or shop environment. It is
not
designed for
use where it could be exposed to rain, caustic chemicals, heavy vibration, and other
non-standard environments. Use in applications other than those described in this
manual may result in hazardous conditions and void the warranty.
Since it is impossible to achieve 100% containment of the abrasive within the system, it
is not recommended for use in a “clean room”.
In addition to the DirectFlo, typically three additional elements are needed for proper
micro-abrasive blasting: a WorkStation, a dust collector, and a dry air supply. The
following paragraphs explain the importance of each of these items. Refer to figure 2-1
to see how these items work together as a complete system.
WorkStation
A suitable hood or box providing a means of working with the abrasive material without
contaminating the atmosphere of the room is required. It must protect the operator's
face and provide adequate light. The Comco WS2200 and WS6000 WorkStations are
designed for this purpose.
Dust Collector
In order to remove the spent abrasive, a suitable industrial dust collector is required.
These dust collectors have both high airflow and large filter areas to keep work areas
clean and dust free. The Comco DC2100 is a suitable dust collector for most micro-
abrasive blasting applications. In heavy usage, multiple blaster, and automated
applications, the continuous duty DC3000 dust collector is recommended.
Air Supply
The propellant required for the abrasive is compressed air or neutral gas that meets the
Detail Specifications outlined in Chapter 1. Comco has a complete line of air dryers for
shop (compressed) air supplies that will meet or exceed those specifications.
Bottled gas such as CO
2
or nitrogen provides clean, dry air, and may be used if shop air
is not available. However, depending on operating conditions, a 50 lb. bottle of gas will
only last 3-4 hours. Bottled gas does not require air dryers, but may require special
regulators. Contact Comco for more information.
